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About the guide

Barleria, or porcupine flower, is on the Alert List for Environmental Weeds, a list of 28 non-native plants that threaten biodiversity and cause other environmental damage. Although only in the early stages of establishment, these weeds have the potential to seriously degrade Australia's ecosystems.

Barleria has spread into natural ecosystems from gardens and the improper disposal of garden waste. It has the potential to cause economic and environmental damage by forming dense thickets that displace native vegetation and prevent revegetation by native plants. Thickets can impede the movement of stock, restrict access to waterways and reduce the aesthetic values of natural bushland.

Barleria has been found around townships in the Northern Territory (Darwin, Berry Springs, Katherine, Mataranka and the Victoria River district) and Queensland (Townsville) and on Boigu Island in the Torres Strait. In 2002 it was discovered in the Kimberley Region of Western Australia.

This management guide was prepared in 2003. The state and territory contacts in this document may be out of date.